Bush sent condolences to the victims of a massive earthquake in central China on Monday and said the United States was ready to help in any way possible. "I am particularly saddened by the number of students and children affected by this tragedy," Mr Bush said in a statement released by the White House. He said the thoughts and prayers of the American people were with the Chinese people "especially those directly affected." The earthquake killed more than 7,600 people and trapped nearly 900 students under the rubble of their school, raising fears the overall death toll could increase sharply. US President George W. Bush sent condolences to the victims of a massive earthquake in central China on Monday and said the United States was ready to help in any way possible. "I am particularly sad- dened by the number of students and children affected by this tragedy," Mr Bush said in a state- ment released by the White House. He said the thoughts and prayers of the American people were with the Chi- nese people "especially those directly affected." The earthquake killed more than 7,600 people and trapped nearly 900 students under the rubble of their school, raising fears the overall death toll could increase sharply.